Two former Parramatta Eels players are accused of harbouring semi-automatic weapons and possessing more than half-a-million dollars in cash after dramatic arrests in Sydney's Centennial Park yesterday.

Govt, industry create new leadership body

The federal government and industry are to establish a new body to improve the quality of leadership in Australian companies.

Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten announced on Sunday that the government would provide $12 million, in collaboration with industry, over four years for a new Centre for Workplace Leadership.

"The centre will encourage higher performing, innovative workplaces and stronger leadership capability in Australian workplaces, to boost productivity and ensure Australian workers truly have quality jobs," Mr Shorten said in a statement.

The centre would become the national expert on workplace management, leadership and improving the productivity of local workplaces from the top, he said.

It would also provide quality training for bosses and managers on effective leadership, workplace culture and people-management practices, the minister said.

"Working across all industries, sectors and regions of Australia, the centre will improve the leadership capability in workplaces of all sizes, including businesses outside of our capital cities," Mr Shorten said.

"There will be a significant focus on assisting small and medium enterprises."